Northwestern Nebraska was known as an important area for the fur trade way back in the 19th century. Today, there are some wonderfully informative and fun ways to learn about that part of our state’s history, and the best of the best may just be Fur Trade Days, held every summer in Chadron.

As you may already know, the fur trade played a pivotal role in Nebraska's early days. Fur Trade Days in Chadron celebrates that history every July with a festival that's like no other.
Fur Trade Days
This unique event includes plenty of modern attractions, but some of the most fun components are the historic ones.
Fur Trade Days/Facebook
Here you can see the Buckskinners' Camp, a place where history enthusiasts and reenactors get together to create an environment that's just like what the area looked like back in the heyday of the fur trade.
Visitors are welcome to visit the camp for events like tomahawk throwing and archery demonstrations.
Museum of the Fur Trade/Facebook
If you want to camp there, though, you'll have to leave all modern trappings behind, including your modern apparel - no jeans or modern gadgets allowed!
The Museum of the Fur Trade is heavily involved in the activities, and the festival provides the perfect opportunity to visit.
Napa, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Step into the recreated Bordeaux Trading Post for an immersive experience. You'll be surrounded by artifacts of the fur-trading business inside an authentic fur trading post.
There are plenty of modern types of entertainment, too.
Fur Trade Days/Facebook
What would a Nebraska festival be without a parade? You'll see all of the familiar parade sights along with some Buckskinners and other surprises - including a puppy parade!
Vendors will be present to provide food, souvenirs, and period-appropriate crafts and gifts.
Fur Trade Days
Visit the Traders' Market to peruse the offerings and take home a little something to remind you of the festival.
There are games and other fun activities for the whole family, including a horseshoe tournament, live music, a historical scavenger hunt, and much more.
Fur Trade Days/Facebook
You can also take a guided historical cemetery tour of the Greenwood Cemetery.
One can't-miss event is the World Championship Buffalo Chip Throw.
Tim Hettler/Flickr
It's exactly what it sounds like: competitors launch lumps of bison poo to see who can throw it the farthest. It's uniquely Nebraskan and way more fun than you might imagine.
Other events are thoroughly modern in nature, like the demolition derby and classic car show.
Fur Trade Days/Facebook
There's a carnival during the festival that includes rides, games, and other modern delights that the kids (and the kids-at-heart) will love.
Fur Trade Days/Facebook
There's even a fireworks show to really make the event sparkle. It's a dazzling display that will having you looking to the sky with a smile.
Fur Trade Days/Facebook

There are even more events and attractions than we’ve listed here, so be sure to visit the festival’s website for more information and a schedule. You should also check out the festival’s Facebook page for frequent updates on this year’s festivities. The 2022 festival will be held July 6-10. Will you be attending this year?

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Chadron, NE 69337, USA